VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network)
A VLAN is a group of end-stations that are not constrained by their physical location and can communicate as if a common broadcast domain, a LAN. The primary utility of using VLAN is to reduce latency and need for routers, using faster switching instead. Other VLAN utility includes:
Security, Security is increased with the reduction of opportunity in eavesdropping on a broadcast network because data will be switched to only those confidential users within the VLAN.
Cost Reduction, VLANs can be used to create multiple broadcast domains, thus eliminating the need of expensive routers.
Port-based (or port-group) VLAN is the common method of implementing a VLAN, and is the one supplied in the Switch.
Features
24×10/100Mbps Auto-negotiation Fast Ethernet RJ45 ports 2×10/100/1000Mbps Auto-negotiation Gigabit RJ45 ports 2×mini-GBIC ports
All RJ45 ports support auto MDI/MDIX, so there is no need to use cross-over cables or an up-link port
Full/half duplex transfer mode for 10/100Mbps RJ45 port Full duplex transfer mode for Gigabit port
Wire speed reception and transmission
Store-and-Forward switching scheme capability to support rate adaptation and ensure data integrity
